Greek Studies

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer introduces, discusses and analyzes the topic of Greek history. Specifically, the writer discusses the view Aristotle has of Spartan women and looks at how this view compares with other sources on the women of Sparta. The writer points out that Aristotle's view of Spartan women was less than complementary, but this differs from most other sources on Greek history. The writer maintains that Aristotle may have been prejudiced against women, leading to his canted views on Spartan women and their accomplishments.

From the Paper:

"Aristotle, one of the most illustrious Greek philosophers, believed, as many Greeks did, that women and education did not mix. In Athens (Aristotle's home), women were educated in the arts, such as spinning, weaving, and many other domestic activities. They were not educated in science and mathematics, as young men were, and there were many other differences, as well. In Sparta, the domestic tasks such as spinning were seen as work for the serfs or lower classes, while Spartan women were educated on the same level as the men. In fact, women also had to excel in athletics and warrior skills as they mastered their education in Sparta, while women in Athens not only were not fully educated, they could not participate in athletics, and could not own property or serve in the political arena, as well."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Aristotle. "Aristotle: Spartan Women." Fordham University. 2000. 12 Feb. 2008. <http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/ancient/aristotle-spartanwomen.html>
• On, Bat-Ami Bar, ed. Engendering Origins: Critical Feminist Readings in Plato and Aristotle. Albany, NY: State University of New York Press, 1994.
• Pomeroy, Sarah B. Families in Classical and Hellenistic Greece: Representations and Realities. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1998.
• Thompson, James C. Thompson, B.A., M.Ed. "Women in Sparta." WomenintheAncientWorld.com. 2005. 12 Feb. 2008. <http://www.womenintheancientworld.com/women%20in%20sparta.htm>

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